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State of Origin:
25 Years of Sport's Greatest Rivalry

Norm Tasker, John Macdonald, Mike Coleman, Andrew Webster

Maroons' Chris Walker and Gorden Tallis

'State of Origin, 25 Years of Sport’s Greatest Rivalry' is a beautifully presented book on the history of NSW v Queensland matches since 1980.

Once opened the book immediately brings to life the colour and memories of the past 25 years.

Practically every page (all are glossy) has at least one photograph, many are in full colour.

There have not been many of them over the years for rugby league fans - but 'State of Origin, 25 Years of Sport’s Greatest Rivalry' definitely fits the bill of a 'coffee-table book'.

Open a page, any page, and you can start reviewing the great moments of Origin - or just admire the photographs.

Each series has been broken down into matches, quotes, 'snapshots', team lists and player quotes - meaning you can quickly grasp the drama and events of the time.

Noel Cleal and Wayne Pearce chair Steve Mortimer

While the text doesn't lack for any detail, it is not a hard read at all - the use of four different writers seems to keep each series fresh, distinct and interesting.

The big plus of this book is that it doesn't focus on just one player or event from each series, nor does it have a particular bias to one of the states.

All the 'characters' from Origin's past are here - whether winners, losers, heroes or villains, even a few referees.

Legends of the past quarter of a century are also profiled, with many providing fresh quotes and insights into the events of Origin, what it meant to them, and their opinions of their opponents. Naturally, there is an ample statistics, results, and player register section (prepared by NRL Stats) included as well.

A fitting tribute to a quarter of a century of some of rugby league's greatest moments. Highly recommended.

State of Origin:
25 Years of Sport’s Greatest Rivalry'

Hardback cover RRP $45
Full colour and b&w photographs throughout.
245 glossy pages
Size: 300mm X 250mm
ISBN 0949853933
Playright Publishing

A leather-bound limited edition (250 copies)
- personally signed by 15 series-winning captains -
is also available to purchase from the
National Rugby League. www.nrl.com

Product Review © Sean Fagan / RL1908

 

 

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